Ruatapu to Ross - West Coast

A bunch of keen Coasters back in 2011 set out to reclaim the old railway line from Ruatapu to Ross. Disused over the past 30 years, the gorse was thick and big enough to mill and tanalise for fence posts. Corrections Department labour, working bees, slashers, chainsaws and finally a digger have cleared the track. Ground Effect's Slush Fund fronted with some cash to help pay for the digger. The timber decking on the bridges is recycled from the old Arahura Bridge, courtesy of KiwiRail.

Good news is the horse bolted and the West Coast is a biking destination with loads to offer all skill levels, and the track is now part of the family friendly West Coast Wilderness Trail.